Lionel Messi set a new record for the most goals at the FIFA World Cup after his brace in Argentina’s 2-0 win over Austria on Monday.
The Argentine superstar moved ahead of Miroslav Klose to 18 goals – the outright most in World Cup history and now four ahead of Kylian Mbappe, the next active player on the list.
The 38-year-old missed an earlier penalty in the game but made amends with two goals, one in each half to seal victory.
Messi misses penalty, but puts Argentina ahead in first half
Argentina had thrashed Algeria 3-0 in their World Cup opener, a match that saw Messi equal Miroslav Klose on the all-time scoring charts for the tournament.
Meanwhile, Austria were 3-1 winners over Jordan in the other group encounter, and were eyeing a win against the defending champions.
Argentina were off the blocks early in the match and had a penalty shout early in the game after a reckless challenge on Lautaro Martinez. The referee was sent to the monitor and then pointed to the spot for the defending champions.
However, Messi put his effort wide off target and passed on the chance to move past Klose in the history books.
He was not to be denied another record-breaking moment as he fired home his trademark finish in the 38th minute after a brilliant dummy in the buildup by Thiago Almada to put them ahead.
The first half ended 1-0 in Argentina’s favour as Messi made up for his early penalty miss.
Messi scores again to seal victory
Austria started well in search of an equalizer and Marcel Sabitzer was denied by Emiliano Martinez after a few minutes.
Both sides had several half chances during the game, but it was Messi who had the final say on the game.
He set up Julian Alvarez who was denied by Schlager, but Messi was on hand to score the rebound on the second attempt to seal victory and move up to 18 goals.
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Argentina have now booked their spot in the next round and can top the group if Jordan fail to beat Algeria later.
What Next?
Argentina finish their group campaign against Jordan on Sunday. Meanwhile, Austria will face Algeria simultaneously, hoping to also seal their place in the next round.
